Introduction
J.I. Case 431: Row-Crop Tractor (1960-1969)
The J.I. Case 431 is a row-crop tractor produced between 1960 and 1969. Designed for versatility in agricultural operations, this machine offers 37 horsepower and was manufactured in Racine, Wisconsin, and Rock Island, Illinois.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled overhead valve diesel engine with a displacement of 188.4 cubic inches (3.1 liters). It operates at a rated speed of 1750 RPM. The engine features an oil bath air cleaner and has a compression ratio of 17.5:1, requiring 13.5 quarts of coolant and 5 quarts of oil for standard maintenance.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 431 model was available with several transmission configurations, including a basic 4-speed unsynchronized gear system. Advanced options included the Tripl-Range transmission, which provided 12 forward and 3 reverse speeds, and the Dual-Range Shuttle, offering 8 forward and reverse speeds via a mechanical shuttle. All configurations utilize a dry disc clutch, ranging from 254mm to 279.4mm depending on the transmission type.
Hydraulics and Hitch
Equipped with a Dual-Control hydraulic system, the tractor provides precise management of implements. It features a Category I rear hitch utilizing the Case Eagle Hitch system, complemented by Draft-o-Matic draft control to maintain consistent working depth during soil engagement.
Dimensions and Mechanical Features
The tractor is a two-wheel-drive platform with a wheelbase of 79.5 inches (201 cm). It features manual steering, with power steering becoming an available option starting in 1965. Braking is managed through mechanical band/disc brakes. The rear tread width is adjustable from 48 to 88 inches, allowing the machine to be adapted for different row spacings.
Conclusion
The J.I. Case 431 represents a functional and durable solution for mid-century row-crop farming. With its variety of transmission options and adjustable tread widths, it remains a capable machine for farmers requiring a balanced tractor for diverse field duties.
Production Information of J.I. Case, 431
- Row-Crop tractor
| Manufacturer | J.I. Case |
|---|---|
| Original price | $4,500 (1969) |
| Original price(optional) | Racine, Wisconsin, USA |
| Factories | Rock Island, Illinois, USA |
Dimension and Tires Information of J.I. Case, 431
| Rear tread | 48 to 88 inches [121 to 223 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 79.5 inches (wide front) [201 cm] |
| Width | 79.625 inches [202 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 130.125 inches (tricycle) [330 cm] |
| Width(optional) | 84.5 inches (tricycle) [214 cm] |
| Front tread | 6.5/11.5 inches [16/29 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 57 inches [144 cm] |
| Length | 127.375 inches (wide front) [323 cm] |
| Front tread | 52 to 80 inches [132 to 203 cm] |
| Front tread | 48 to 72 inches [121 to 182 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 20.125 inches [51 cm] |
| Ag front | 5.50x16 |
|---|---|
| Ag rear | 12.4x28 |
| Ag rear(optional) | 13.6x28 |
Engine Specifications of J.I. Case, 431
- J.I. Case
- Liquid-cooled overhead valve
- Diesel
- 4-cylinder
| Oil capacity | 5 qts [4.7 L] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 188.4 ci [3.1 L] |
| Compression | 17.5:1 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.8125x4.125 inches [97 x 105 mm] |
| Coolant capacity | 13.5 qts [12.8 L] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
| Rated RPM | 1750 |
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
Transmission Information of J.I. Case, 431
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
|---|---|
| Gears | 4 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 254mm dry disc |
Transmission variants 2
- Tripl-Range adds three ranges (low, direct, and high) to the basic four-speed transmission.
| Transmission | Tripl-Range |
|---|---|
| Clutch | 254mm dry disc |
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
| Gears | 12 forward and 3 reverse |
Transmission variants 3
- Four gears in two ranges with mechanical shuttle.
| Transmission | Dual-Range Shuttle |
|---|---|
| Clutch | 279.4mm dry disc |
| Type | Mechanical shuttle |
| Gears | 8 forward and reverse |
Transmission variants 4
| Transmission | Dual Range |
|---|---|
| Clutch | 254mm dry disc |
| Type | Unsynchronized gear |
| Gears | 8 forward and 2 reverse |
- 4-speed unsynchronized gear
- 8-speed unsynchronized gear
- 12-speed unsynchronized gear
- 8-speed mechanical shuttle
Mechanical Specs of J.I. Case, 431
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station
- Mechanical band/disc brakes
| Steering | Manual |
|---|---|
| Steering(optional) | Power (1965 on) |
Power Information of J.I. Case, 431
| Rear PTO | Live |
|---|---|
| Rear PTO(optional) | 540/1000 |
| Rear PTO(optional) | Independent |
| Rear PTO Type | 540 |
Independent PTO optional beginning in 1966.
Hydraulics Specifications of J.I. Case, 431
| Type | Dual-Control |
|---|---|
| Valves | 1 |
Three-Point Hitch of J.I. Case, 431
| Rear Type | I |
|---|---|
| Control | Draft-o-Matic draft control |
| Type | Case Eagle Hitch |
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 27th percentile of 1960s models in our database (709 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the J.I. Case 431 have?
The J.I. Case 431 delivers 37 hp[P] HP.
What years was the J.I. Case 431 produced?
The J.I. Case 431 was produced in 1960-1969.
What engine does the J.I. Case 431 have?
The J.I. Case 431 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the J.I. Case 431 use?
The J.I. Case 431 uses a Unsynchronized gear transmission.
Is the J.I. Case 431 4WD?
The J.I. Case 431 is available in 2WD.